Many casual cinema-goers can name their favorite actors, actresses or directors, but not many outside of the industry have a favorite editor. I've often wondered why editors don't seem to get as much credit for the success of a film the same way that directors do. They are, after all responsible for...

What do a shark, an archaeologist and a bunch of aliens have in common? They all feature prominently in the films that the members of our Criticwire network have selected as among Steven Spielberg's best.

Reel Reads is a regular feature that gathers lengthier stories related to the world of film criticism you may have missed during the week. If there's anything you think would be ideal for future installments, please let us know at critic@indiewire.com.

This week's octet of stories from around the web deals almost primarily with the beginning. In some cases, it's the genesis of a franchise, but in others, it's the spark that leads to a celebrated life in film.

This week's selection of weekend reading comes from the results of last week's Critics Deserving of Wider Recognition survey. Topics include "Jaws," "Serenity," filmmaker teachers and a very funny plot pastiche.